Marketing efficiency analysis of beef cattle markets: A case study from the Republic of Benin

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the efficiency of beef cattle markets in the Republic of Benin. Primary data were collected from face-to-face surveys of a random sample of 600 respondents consisting of 300 beef cattle farmers and 300 beef cattle traders participating in self-managed beef cattle markets (MBA) and traditional beef cattle markets (MT). Different marketing channels were identified in the selected beef cattle markets: Channel I, Farmer-Slaughterhouse/Butchery; Channel II, Farmer-Collector-Wholesaler-Slaughterhouse/Butchery; Channel III, Farmer-Collector-Slaughterhouse/Butchery; and Channel IV, Farmer-Wholesaler- Slaughterhouse/Butchery. Channel I appears to be the most efficient in both markets with a marketing efficiency of 2.57 in MBA markets and 1.23 in MT markets. The average marketing efficiencies are 1.25 and 0.97 in MBA and MT markets, respectively. The marketing efficiency analysis showed that MBA markets are more efficient than MT markets. To increase the marketing efficiency of farmers, MT markets should be converted into MBA markets. Facilitating transportation and access to market information are critical factors for increasing farmers' marketing efficiency.